Martin and Kearney combine for Dundalk win

Gobi Star (5/2f) registered a first success for trainer Pat Martin at Dundalk today, landing the Dundalk Stadium Gift Vouchers Handicap (div II) under jockey Jack Kearney.

Previously successful in a Down Royal maiden, the Starspangledbanner gelding was bought by Martin for €13,000 following a claimer win last November, the today improved on some recent placed efforts when comfortably beating runner-up Bucky Larson

Martin stated "he got outstayed last week and was probably was in better form today. He broke, travelled and picked up really well. He loves the surface and is in a good place at the minute. He'll stay going, but I'm sure he'll be out of that (47-65) grade now.

"I think seven (furlongs) just gives him a chance to be travelling better. Much the same the last day, but they kept going well that day. They went really hard today, I think, and he got home well, so delighted."

He added "I'm delighted for Jack - he's a really nice rider, but a very good worker as well. I'm sure Ger (Lyons, retained trainer) would agree with that. He has always had a good work ethic and he seems to learn every time he goes out there.

"He's a big lad and I hope the weight isn't a problem for him, but he works hard at it. The future is bright.

"I've always tried to identify guys that are good value for their claim and there are a lot of good kids."

Quotes from Michael Graham